Are you looking to program a new transponder key for your 2008 FJ Cruiser? Losing or damaging your car keys can be a frustrating and costly experience. Dealerships often charge a premium for replacement keys and programming. Fortunately, for 2008-2009 FJ Cruiser models with a working key, you can program a new transponder key yourself, saving both time and money. This guide will walk you through the process of programming a transponder key, enabling you to start your engine and manually unlock your doors. Please note that this procedure is specifically for the transponder function and does not program the remote keyless entry (key fob) functionality.
To get started, you will need to gather a few items:
- A Blank Toyota Transponder Key: Ensure you purchase the correct blank key. It should have a dot or circular divot where the blade meets the plastic head and should not have a “G” stamped on it. Refer to the image below for visual clarification. The Toyota Part Number you’ll need is 89785-60160 (Chip#4D-67).
Alt text: Toyota transponder key blank with a circular dot divot visible on the key blade near the plastic head, used for 2008 FJ Cruiser key programming.
You can purchase this blank key online from retailers like Amazon or eBay, typically for around $10-$15. Dealerships also carry these keys, but they may be significantly more expensive, potentially costing around $35 or more.
Once you have your blank transponder key, the next step is to have it cut. You will need to take your existing, working key and the new blank to a key cutting service. Places like Lowes, Ace Hardware, or local locksmiths often provide key cutting services. Some Toyota dealerships may also cut the key, sometimes even included in the cost of the blank key if purchased from them. It’s advisable to call ahead to confirm if they offer key cutting services and inquire about any associated costs. Remember that not all key cutting locations are equipped to handle car keys, so making a couple of calls may be necessary to find a suitable service.
Now that you have your blank transponder key cut to match your existing key, you are ready to program the transponder chip. Follow these steps carefully and precisely. It’s recommended to read through the instructions completely before starting and even rehearse the steps or have someone read them aloud to you during the process. Accuracy and timing are crucial for successful programming.
Programming Instructions for your 2008 FJ Cruiser Transponder Key:
- Get into the driver’s seat and close the driver’s door. Ensure all doors are closed properly.
- Insert and remove your working key into the ignition five times. On the fifth insertion, leave the key in the ignition but do not turn it. Perform these insertions and removals quickly, within a 10-second timeframe.
- Immediately open and close the driver’s door six times. Maintain a consistent and relatively quick pace for opening and closing the door.
- Immediately remove the working key from the ignition. Observe the security indicator light, which is typically located on the right side of the radio on the dashboard. This security “key” light should remain lit. If it does not stay lit, you will need to start the programming sequence over from step 1.
- Immediately insert the new, non-programmed key into the ignition. At this point, the security “key” light should begin to blink. It will typically blink about once every two seconds.
- Wait for the security “key” light to go out. This step can take a few minutes, so be patient. Do not remove the key until the light turns off. The light turning off indicates that the new transponder key has been successfully programmed. Once the light is off, remove the new key from the ignition.
- Start the car with your old, working key. This step is crucial as it is believed to stop the programming mode.
- Start the car with your newly programmed transponder key. If the programming was successful, your FJ Cruiser should start.
Congratulations! You have successfully programmed a new transponder key for your 2008 FJ Cruiser.
Important Considerations:
- Model Year Compatibility: These instructions are specifically for 2008 and 2009 FJ Cruiser models. This transponder key and programming procedure will not work for 2007 or 2010-2014 FJ Cruisers.
- Transponder Key vs. Remote Fob: It’s important to reiterate that this procedure programs the transponder function, which allows the key to start the engine and manually unlock doors. It does not program the remote keyless entry (key fob) functionality with lock and unlock buttons. If you require remote keyless entry functionality, that is a separate programming procedure, and you will need a key fob remote.
- Multiple Backup Keys: You can program multiple transponder keys using this procedure, creating backup keys for your vehicle. It is reported that you can program up to 12 keys, but for most users, a couple of backup keys should be sufficient.
- Troubleshooting: If the security light does not behave as described in the steps, or if the new key does not start your vehicle, double-check that you have followed each step precisely and with the correct timing. If you continue to experience issues, you may need to seek assistance from a qualified locksmith or Toyota dealership.
By following these steps, you can effectively program a new transponder key for your 2008 FJ Cruiser and avoid the higher costs associated with dealership programming services. Enjoy the convenience and peace of mind of having a spare key! If you found this guide helpful, please consider sharing it or giving it a like!
